Maintain a Survivable Space - "Things You Can Do Today"

5/11/2017 (Permalink)

Fire Damage - "Things You Can Do Today"

• Clean roof surfaces and gutters of pine needs, leaves, branches, etc., regularly to avoid accumulation of flammable materials.
• Remove portions of any tree extending within 10 feet of the flue opening of any stove or chimney.
• Maintain a screen constructed of non-flammable material over the flue opening of every chimney or stovepipe. Mesh openings of the screen should not exceed 1/2 inch.
• Landscape vegetation should be spaced so that fire can not be carried to the structure or surrounding vegetation.
• Remove branches from trees to height of 15 feet.
• A fuel break should be maintained around all structures.
• Dispose of stove or fireplace ashes and charcoal briquettes only after soaking them in a metal pail of water.
• Store gasoline in an approved safety can away from occupied buildings.
• Propane tanks should be far enough away from buildings for valves to be shut off in case of fire. Keep area clear of flammable vegetation.
• All combustibles such as firewood, picnic tables, boats, etc. should be kept away from structures.
• Garden hose should be connected to outlet.
• Addressing should be indicated at all intersections and on structures.
• All roads and driveways should be at least 16 feet in width.
• Have fire tools handy such as: ladder long enough to reach the roof, shovel, rake and bucket for water.
• Each home should have at least two different entrance and exit routes.

Source

www.nifc.gov